Performed by qualified professionals like chiropractors, prenatal massage involves a variety of techniques designed to target specific issues that affect pregnant women. Most commonly, the strategic manipulation of tissues can help expectant mothers minimize muscle tension and reduce physical pain in a safe, effective, and medication-free fashion. If you’re curious about what prenatal massage therapy can do for you, here are three unique benefits to consider.

How Prenatal Massage Can Help Expectant Mothers

1. Reduce Swelling

Women produce about 50% more blood cells and body fluids during pregnancy. While these fluids are beneficial in preparing the body for delivery, they can also contribute to uncomfortable swelling—especially in the hands and feet. Prenatal massage can help mitigate swelling by breaking up tissues that are holding onto fluids and encourage drainage of the lymphatic system.

2. Minimize Stress

When your body is working to take care of both baby and mother, it can become stressed and fatigued. While this stress may not always be preventable, it can put your health and wellness in jeopardy.

Prenatal massage therapy helps reduce stress in many ways. For example, manipulating soft tissues can relieve muscle tension—a key component of stress. It’s also shown to improve hormone production to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as boost mood. This enhancement is believed to help expectant mothers enjoy a more comfortable delivery and improve the baby’s health at birth.

3. Boost Circulation

As skin and tissues are manipulated during massage therapy, blood circulation can improve. This helps ensure that oxygen and nutrients make their way to both baby and mother. It can also minimize high blood pressure, a common and potentially dangerous complication of pregnancy.

Providing chiropractic care for patients of all backgrounds, Eastern Hills Chiropractic is a leading resource for expectant mothers in the Cincinnati, OH, area. Dr. Matthew Haumesser is well-versed in prenatal massage and provides customized care to naturally relieve pain, ease stress, and boost the health and wellness of pregnant patients. In addition to massage therapy, this chiropractor also offers adjustments that can help women feel more comfortable during pregnancy and enjoy a smoother delivery. To learn more about these holistic treatments, visit this chiropractic clinic online. For appointments, call (513) 528-2200.